An example of coordinated school health in action

This is a story about a school that formed a Healthy Kids Learn Better Team made up of school administrators, staff and community partners. The team identified healthful eating and physical activity as key student health issues affecting student attendance and academic achievement. Using the eight components of coordinated school health, they supported their students with an integrated program.

Dawn went to the school nurse when she was running low on energy. The nurse assessed and referred her to a local health clinic, where they were able to treat Dawn for anemia.

Counseling, psychological and social servicesSchool-based or school-linked services focusing on cognitive, emotional and behavioral needs of individuals, groups and families.

A local psychologist volunteered his time to talk to students about body image issues twice a month after school. Brian signed up and is feeling much better about himself.

Health promotion for staffSchool-based or school-linked programs promoting physical and mental health for staff and discussing the importance of positive role modeling for students.

Teachers are encouraged to attend nutrition and wellness sessions for adults and to participate in the community's adult sports leagues and health clubs at discounted prices.

Family and community involvementMeaningful partnerships among schools, families and communities enhancing the healthy development of youth.

Monique's dad represents the local business community and attends monthly school board meetings to advocate using school buildings for community meals programs.

Healthy school environmentA healthful and supportive school climate and a safe, aesthetically pleasing physical environment.

The school foodservice department and vending machine companies partnered to provide nutritious snacks to the school at discounted prices. Now, Juan and his teachers eat healthier snacks.

Nutrition services and educationSchool-based or school-linked programs, provided by trained personnel, that assure all students affordable and nutritious meals and deliver nutrition education in partnership with the classroom teacher.

Maria's school has always offered free breakfast to students and teachers. Recently, the nutrition program revamped its offerings to make breakfast available all morning, so Maria can eat breakfast after second period.

PE teachers have aligned instruction with state PE standards and identified new ways to encourage lifelong physical activity. Local community professionals come to Tran's PE class to give kids new ideas on how to be active, such as bowling, martial arts and dancing.